Kingston, PA Dentist Restores Oral Health with Gum Disease Treatment
Did you know that majority of adults in the United States have some form of gum disease? As the leading cause of tooth loss in adults, gum disease can wreak havoc on oral health and total wellness without treatment. Fortunately, the team at Lawrence Dental Group in Kingston, PA is proactive about monitoring periodontal health so that gum disease can be caught early and treated effectively. We educate our patients about the common causes of gum diseases, treatment options, and most importantly, methods for preventing it.
The 3 stages of gum disease are gingivitis, periodontitis, and advanced periodontitis. Gingivitis is caused by toxins irritating the gum line as a result of plaque buildup. Signs and symptoms of gingivitis includes swelling, sensitivity, and bleeding of the gums during brushing and flossing. Gingivitis can be easily reversed through professional care and good home oral hygiene. Periodontitis is categorized by irreversible bone loss that results from untreated gingivitis. The gums may begin to form a pocket below the gum line which traps food and plaque. Dental treatment and home care can help prevent from further damage, but at this stage, the results are not reversible. Advanced periodontitis is when the fibers and bones supporting the teeth destroyed. This may cause teeth to shift or loosen. Teeth may have to be removed depending on how advanced the disease has become and if treatments are not effective. You can begin by preventing gum disease with good oral health. Pick up a brochure or ask your dentist today.
What Causes Gum Disease?
Gum disease is an infection in the soft tissue that surrounds the teeth. There are several factors that contribute to the onset of gum disease: plaque buildup, genetics, and lifestyle choices.
- Plaque Buildup – Plaque is a colorless, sticky film that releases toxins that breakdown the natural fibers in the gum tissue that support the teeth. Plaque build-up is caused by inadequate oral hygiene.
- Genetics – If you have a family history of gum disease, you are at a higher risk for developing the condition.
- Lifestyle choices – Smoking and tobacco use can increase the risk of gum disease.
Gum Disease Treatment
Treatment for gum disease is contingent on how advanced the condition has become. In its earliest stage, gingivitis, treatment may only consist of additional professional cleanings and an improvement in at-home oral hygiene.
When the condition has progressed to advanced periodontitis, treatment becomes much more involved. It can include the following:
- Scaling and root planing – this professional deep cleaning removes the tartar from below the gum line and smooths out the roots to prevent future build-up.
- Antibiotics / Antimicrobial mouthwashes – these are used to control the infection.
- Bone/Tissue Grafting – this may be necessary when bone or tissue loss has occurred as a result of deep infection.
- Dental Implants – If tooth loss has occurred, dental implants can restore the gaps in the smile.
Bleeding gums are never normal
Knowing the signs of gum disease can help you identify it early so that it’s more easily treated. The most common indicators of gum disease are:
- Bleeding gums
- Chronic bad breath
- Teeth that appear elongated
- Loose/shifting teeth
- Gum tissue pulling away from the teeth to form pockets
Contact Lawrence Dental Group Today
When it comes to gum disease, the best method of prevention is routine dental exams along with good oral hygiene at home. If you feel like you may have some of the symptoms of gum disease, call our Kingston, PA office at (570) 852-2650.
